The Organisation of Southern Cooperation (OSC) has announced that it is currently in advanced discussions with the Nigerian government regarding the establishment of a technological hub in the country.

The proposed initiative aims to strengthen innovation, research, and digital transformation in Nigeria and across the African continent.

According to the organisation, the hub would serve as a platform to harness local talent, encourage knowledge exchange, and foster sustainable development through technology-driven solutions.

In an interview with The Guardian in Abuja, Secretary-General of the OSC, Manssour Bin Mussallam, explained that the proposed partnership is designed to empower Nigeria’s growing youthful population by equipping them with digital skills and resources that are critical in today’s global economy.

Established in 2020 with its headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the international body focuses on promoting South–South cooperation among countries of the Global South. Its membership cuts across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and the Pacific.

Mussallam further stressed that the technological hub would not only benefit Nigeria but also contribute to building stronger cooperation among developing nations in the Global South.

He said the initiative, once finalised, is expected to support Nigeria’s efforts in diversifying its economy beyond oil and strengthening its position as a regional leader in technology and innovation.

It would also attract international investors and create opportunities for startups and small businesses to thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace.

His words: “We are in the early conversations with the Nigerian government, but both parties are committed, I believe, from the exchanges, to moving forward with this.
“However, if things go according to plan, we can expect, at the very least, in its embryonic form, to have the technological centre in place by 2026 and to have it expand and take full shape by 2027.

“We’re the club of the perpetually dissatisfied, and that means also we’re always in a hurry, because we want everything done as soon as yesterday”.

He expressed confidence that with Nigeria’s vast human capital and entrepreneurial spirit, the country is well-positioned to become a key driver of technological advancement in Africa.